I found a path where others only saw stones.
How the True Flavor of Tulio Recomienda Was Born
In a fascinating interview for Tierra Querida, Tulio Zuloaga, the charismatic gastronomic influencer who has captivated the hearts of millions of Colombians through his project, shared his inspiring journey as an artist in Colombia and how he has managed to leave an indelible mark on the country’s culinary scene.
Tulio’s beginnings were not exactly easy, but he always kept his sights set on his goal of reaching thousands of readers and followers. With an insatiable curiosity and a deep passion for gastronomy, he ventured into the most remote corners of Colombia, discovering flavors and dishes as diverse as the cultural richness of the country itself. From the Caribbean coast to the Andean mountains, Tulio has explored every delicacy and experienced the diversity of Colombian cuisine.
Driven by the desire to share his experiences and recommend the best places to enjoy local gastronomy, Tulio decided to document these adventures through social media, starting in 2008 on Facebook. Over time, his culinary project, Tulio Recomienda, became a phenomenon, gaining recognition and admiration both in Colombia and abroad.
What sets Tulio apart, without a doubt, is his authenticity and his ability to genuinely connect with his audience. Every post and recommendation he shares is the result of a lived and enjoyed experience, conveying not only the taste of the dishes but also the emotions and sensations that accompany them.
It is exciting to see how Tulio’s talent and dedication have not only made him an essential reference in the culinary scene but also an ambassador of Colombia’s rich gastronomy. His project is a window into traditions, flavors, and diversity.
His purpose—according to Tulio—is to showcase Colombian cuisine: “so that each of our authentic dishes receives the recognition it deserves,” the influencer stated. He also mentioned that he has had the opportunity to enjoy different dishes in internationally renowned restaurants, but without hesitation, he still recommends the flavors of his homeland.
Through his social media, Tulio Recomienda takes us on a fascinating journey across the country, allowing us to experience, in a unique way, how each of these gastronomic adventures tastes. Tulio has explored places that, for him, encapsulate the very essence of Colombia’s rich and diverse culinary culture. In his own words, each post is like stepping into a small Macondo of flavors.
One of Tulio’s most emblematic projects is El Burger Máster, a gastronomic initiative focused on the creative and original preparation of hamburgers. This proposal has empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs and has helped many recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The success of El Burger Máster has been so remarkable that other Latin American countries have replicated the idea.
A major endeavor that transcended Colombia’s borders, El Burger Máster has rallied “an army of food lovers,” as Tulio calls them, in support of the initiative. Millions of internet users watch his videos and appreciate the positive impact he has had on their lives. For the famous influencer, “it is an immense joy, filled with gratitude.” A feeling he always carries in his soul and heart.
For Tulio, Colombia is more than a beloved land; it is his home, the place that has given him the opportunity to showcase its gastronomy to the world in a dreamlike way. “Colombia is an unexplored land with so many stories and treasures to discover,” he emphasized, recalling his visits to towns where the tradition of eating under a mango tree and enjoying local dishes makes for a “unique and unparalleled” experience.
Tulio treasures unforgettable experiences, like the time he met home-based chefs in El Valle, such as Hilda Cuero, whose restaurant operates from her own patio. He fondly remembers his visit to Floridablanca, also known as “Colombia’s Sweet City,” where he filmed a series of videos and was amazed by the obleas with arequipe de café and hormigas culonas—a true adventure for “gastronomic explorers looking to discover more about our country.”
From Tierra Querida Magazine, we want to express our sincere gratitude for the wonderful stories Tulio shares with us. Each post on his social media not only showcases his deep passion for gastronomy but also his unwavering love for the authentic flavors of our land. We are confident that Tulio will continue exploring every corner and carrying the name of Colombia beyond our borders.
If you’re in Colombia and looking for a unique culinary experience, you can’t miss following Tulio Recomienda! Get ready to indulge in the most exquisite dishes, crafted with love by exceptional people. 🌟 With Tulio as your guide, you’ll discover the most authentic places and the most delicious flavors of our beautiful country. 🇨🇴
By Jose Saldaña, Journalist at Tierra Querida.